what is a red flag warning

A red flag warning is a forecast warning issued by the National Weather Service in the United States to inform the public, firefighters, and land management agencies that conditions are ideal for wildland fire combustion and rapid spread. The warning is issued when a combination of high temperatures, very low humidity, and strong winds in a given location could create an environment that is conducive to dangerous fires. The National Weather Service sets these warnings most often between February 15 and April 30 and again from October 1 to December 15, when typical weather conditions are consistent with that criteria. The warning means that warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire danger. After drought conditions, when humidity is very low, and especially when there are high or erratic winds which may include lightning as a factor, the Red Flag Warning becomes a critical statement for firefighting agencies. The warning serves as a signal to officials and fire managers to be on the lookout for potential wildfires in the area.